Complete separation of four potassium currents in Drosophila

Neuron. 1989 Apr;2(4):1325-9. doi: 10.1016/0896-6273(89)90070-6.

Abstract

A number of voltage-activated and Ca2+ activated K+ currents are known to coexist and play a major role in a wide variety of cellular processes including neuromuscular phenomena. Separation of these currents is important for analyzing their individual functional roles and for understanding whether or not they are mediated by entirely different channels. In Drosophila, we have now been able to manipulate four different K+ currents, individually and in combination with one another, by a combined use of mutations and pharmacological agents. This allows analysis of the physiological and molecular properties of different K+ channels and of the role of individual currents in membrane excitability.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Calcium / pharmacology
  • Drosophila melanogaster / genetics
  • Drosophila melanogaster / physiology*
  • Ion Channel Gating / drug effects
  • Membrane Potentials
  • Mutation
  • Potassium / metabolism*
  • Potassium Channels / drug effects
  • Potassium Channels / physiology*
  • Quinidine / pharmacology

Substances

  • Potassium Channels
  • Quinidine
  • Potassium
  • Calcium